• Premier League

Terry in line for Stoke start

ESPN staff
March 9, 2012
John Terry was on the bench against Birmingham in midweek © PA Photos
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Chelsea captain John Terry is poised to complete his rapid comeback from injury by starting against Stoke at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Terry underwent knee surgery last month and was expected to be out until April, but was surprisingly named among the substitutes for Chelsea's 2-0 FA Cup win at Birmingham on Tuesday.

He was an unused substitute in that match - Roberto Di Matteo's first as interim boss following the dismissal of Andre Villas-Boas - yet could now feature from the start against Stoke as the Blues resume their push for a top-four place.

"There is a chance [of Terry playing]," Di Matteo said. "He has trained well since Tuesday, so he is available for Saturday.

"It is great for the team if JT is available, as he is our leader and a very important player.

"Going forward with the important games coming up I am very pleased we have all our players available."

The news also provides a welcome boost ahead of a daunting Champions League assignment against Napoli next week. The Blues, who are the only English participants left in the competition, must overturn a 3-1 deficit in the second leg of the last-16 tie, which will take place at Stamford Bridge.

Earlier this week, Terry revealed he was able to jog less than two days after going under the knife - and that he felt pain-free.

Di Matteo also confirmed that the entire first-team squad had been able to train together for only the second time this season.

More to follow

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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